Not sure if this is the appropriate forum. I'm not selling the trailer so I didn't put it in the classifieds. Just thought it was too interesting to not pass along:

http://seattle.craigslist.org/oly/rvs/187068907.html
Vintage 1949 22 foot Clipper. The skin is in good condition with some dents and the frame is solid. The windows are in good condition. This trailer has all of the interior components removed. Original aluminum cabinets are still in place. Some dry rot in the floor. Some aluminum on the underbelly which needs replacing.
This item is available for bidding on E-bay, item #120014006726

I just acquired a Curtis Wright, and by no means am I an aficionado when it comes to the history of the Curtis Wright. I have an interest in obtaining such facts, and have read what is available on the internet with general searches.

I would really like to know the Model #, and serial number of that Curtis Wright. Curtis Wright Model 5's were built in 1947-June 1949. If it is indeed a 1949, the serial number may give us a clue to how many were produced. My 1947, serial is 8060.

...snip...In June 1949, three individuals, Kenny Neptune, Frank Pollito and "Pat" Patterson, who had met each other while working for Douglas Aircraft, acquired the trailer business from Mr. Wright and began producing trailers under the Silver Streak name in south El Monte California -which it continued into the 1970's as a separate company.
...snip... http://www.vintageairstream.com/FAQ/FAQ_1.html

To help determine how rare these trailers are, can anyone determine how many Curtis Wrights were made?

How many different models were created? I know there is a Model 2, and Model 5.

How many Model 5's were made during Wally Byams employement with Curtis Wright?

How many were made after Wally Byam left Curtis Wright to start Airstream Inc.?

I looked at an Airstream many years ago (through the windows) that had wall covering like this in the dinette area. It was linoleum glued to the wall. The moment we saw that we figured any other work the owner had done to the trailer was, well, not what we'd like and we did not go back for a second look. An acquired taste I guess and I never thought I'd see another.
Barry

looks very cool. there isn't any description about the condition of the trailer but judging by the price, you should only count on getting a shell (if you get anything inside it could be a bonus, but given the year, probably not).

i would say it's definately a "project" trailer which could mean lifting off the shell and repairing the frame and completely rebuilding the subfloor and installing a new interior.

if you're new to airstreams, i'd be a little leary on recommending this trailer for you UNLESS you're looking for a many months to a year or more project and have 10K or more to spend (after the purchase price). it would be a great project to restore.

good luck!

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david

*by asking the above question,
i verify that i have already used
the search feature to the best of my ability...

Does the level of historic significance of this trailer justify the initial cost, transporting it across the country at a cost of probably $2000 and then the time and money restoring it?

that really is a personal decision. it's not based on dollar value or recouping money on the investment if you sell. or on historical significance for that matter.

with that said, forum members have paid upwards of 2k to transport smaller trailers across the country, usually trailers 19' or less because they are more desirable and harder to find.

it really comes down to whether you're willing to spend the time and money on this trailer or any other. if you're not sure, i'd recommend spending more time here and reading all about the trials and tribulations of airstream owners.

if it was restored, it would be the coolest trailer in your neighborhood.

__________________
david

*by asking the above question,
i verify that i have already used
the search feature to the best of my ability...

It looks as though it still has it's pipe frame which in most cases (not all) would need to be either strenghthened or replaced. Others on the forum can likely tell you more who have similar Airstream equivalents. Cuyeda had a thread going on the early Curtis Wright similar to this trailer a short while before Christmas if I remember correctly and had gathered up some information on his.

I tried the link provided by Poconoair, but was not working. Do you have pictures of the orginal posting on Tin Can Tourists? Perhaps Poconoair actually purchased it. I hope to start a registry on Curtis Wrights. If anyone knows other owners of these trailers, please pass along any contact info.

I tried the link provided by Poconoair, but was not working. Do you have pictures of the orginal posting on Tin Can Tourists? Perhaps Poconoair actually purchased it. I hope to start a registry on Curtis Wrights. If anyone knows other owners of these trailers, please pass along any contact info.

I have passed your info off to my friend with the '47. His is partially assembled but sitting off to the side right now as he puts an airplane kit he purchased together. I guess flying is more important than camping? I need to have a serious chat with him '

Hi..I reciently bought a curtis wright and would like to get info and pictures on these. I am now studying all these posts. I think the one listed at the beginning of this thread is the other one the guy had that I bought mine from since he had two. Mine has front roof damage that need to be fixed. The one he has with the fake brick interior was slightly damaged in a roll. I did see that one in person and it is very clean with little deterioation. Mine is a little more in need of lower shell replacement in a few areas. I am intterested in knowing about the odd large taillights that were on some that were tear dropped shaped. I also am wondering where to get some windows. I think he took my windows and frames and also he took my large teardrop shaped taillights and the original heater.Do you hav any pics of totally original interior and interior lights? I can give you some pics of mine. I plan on doing a total restoration.
Mine is still listed on ebay
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